Much like a nebby neighbor popping by unannounced, garden pests have a knack for showing up right when your plants are thriving. But don’t grab the pesticides just yet—there are plenty of chemical-free ways to keep your greens growing and your garden growing.

Start with solid foundations—think of it as curb appeal for your soil.
Rich, organic compost is the mulch-equivalent of a fresh coat of paint: it fortifies your plants and helps them stand up to those pesky invaders.

Let the sunshine lead your planting decisions.
Pick plants that match your garden’s exposure so they don’t struggle like a sun-seeking bungalow in a shady cul-de-sac. Healthier plants = fewer pest problems.

Add some Pennsylvania personality with pest-repelling plants.
Marigolds, thyme, mint, lavender—these not only smell amazing but also tell pests to hit the road. Bonus? Bees love ’em, and pollinators keep the garden ecosystem humming.

Mix it up like a well-staged open house.
Alternating veggies with repellent plants creates visual interest and throws pests off their game. Rotating your crops each year adds variety and keeps the soil from throwing in the towel.

Be your garden’s first responder.
Catch infestations early by removing infected leaves—or the whole plant if it’s beyond saving. Think of it like pulling a listing before it tanks your client’s reputation.

Invite the good guys.
Some plants lure in pest predators, aka nature’s security guards. Do your research and give your garden allies the green light.

And if you really want to keep the riffraff out… row covers to the rescue!
They let in light and rain but block pests like velvet ropes at an exclusive listing. Just remember to lift them each morning so pollinators can do their thing.

Here’s to keeping your garden—and your listings—vibrant, inviting, and totally pest-free. Happy planting!